Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe: A Complete Guide
Introduction:
Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake is a comfort food classic that many people crave, especially during colder months or for special breakfasts and gatherings. However, if you’re following the Weight Watchers (WW) program or are simply looking to enjoy this decadent treat while keeping your points in check, it’s essential to adapt the recipe. Traditional recipes for apple cinnamon rolls are loaded with sugar, butter, and flour, making them high in calories and points. But don’t worry! This Weight Watchers-friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake provides all the flavors of this popular dessert with fewer points and without sacrificing taste.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and WW SmartPoints, so you can make this delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake and still stay within your WW goals. Whether you’re preparing this for a special brunch or as a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit, both in terms of flavor and points.
Why Choose Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake?
Apple Cinnamon Rolls are often associated with indulgence, and understandably so. Typically made with a sugary dough, butter-laden filling, and a sticky glaze, these rolls can quickly add up in calories and WW points. However, by swapping out some key ingredients, we can create a healthier version that fits seamlessly into the WW program while still offering that familiar, comforting taste.
By using smart ingredient substitutions, we can reduce both the calorie and sugar content, which ultimately lowers the points of the recipe. This lighter version of Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake will still give you that delicious combination of spiced apples, soft dough, and a gooey cinnamon filling, all without the guilt.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a lighter, healthier breakfast, snack, or even dessert that still delivers on flavor. With proper portion control, it can also be included in meal prepping for the week, so you can enjoy a treat throughout the week while staying on track with your WW points.
Key Ingredients for Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake
In this recipe, we’ll make some simple swaps to ensure the dish stays lower in points. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients used in this recipe and why they’re ideal for a WW-friendly version:
1. Whole Wheat Flour (1 ½ cups)
Traditional cinnamon roll dough typically uses all-purpose flour, which is high in refined carbs and calories. In this recipe, we substitute it with whole wheat flour, which adds fiber and nutrients to the dough. Whole wheat flour also has a lower glycemic index compared to white flour, which means it won’t spike blood sugar as quickly.
2. Baking Powder (1 tablespoon)
Baking powder helps the dough rise and gives the apple cinnamon roll bake the light, fluffy texture we crave. It is a calorie-free ingredient and doesn’t add any extra points, making it a must-have for this WW-friendly recipe.
3. Ground Cinnamon (2 teaspoons)
Cinnamon is a key spice in this dish, giving it its signature warm flavor. Cinnamon is naturally low in calories and has several health benefits, including antioxidant properties and the ability to help regulate blood sugar. It’s the perfect addition to the filling and dough.
4. Unsweetened Applesauce (½ cup)
In place of butter or oil, unsweetened applesauce provides moisture to the dough and the filling. It’s naturally sweet, so it adds some flavor without the added sugar. Applesauce is also low in calories and fat, which helps reduce the points.
5. Egg Whites (2 large)
Rather than using whole eggs, we use egg whites to keep the recipe lighter while still providing the necessary structure and moisture. Egg whites are rich in protein and low in fat, making them a great choice for a WW-friendly recipe.
6. Skim Milk (½ cup)
Skim milk is a lower-calorie alternative to whole milk, making it a great option for WW-friendly recipes. It provides creaminess to the dough and filling without contributing extra points. If you prefer a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk can be used as a substitute.
7. Stevia or Erythritol (2 tablespoons)
We use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol to keep the sugar content low. These zero-calorie sweeteners are perfect for those following the WW program as they don’t add any extra points while still providing the sweetness we need in the dough and filling.
8. Chopped Apples (1 cup)
Fresh, chopped apples add the characteristic apple flavor to the cinnamon roll bake. Apples are a naturally sweet fruit, but they also contain fiber and essential nutrients, such as vitamin C. Although apples contain carbs, the quantity used in this recipe is minimal enough to keep the dish within a reasonable point range for WW.
9. Non-Stick Cooking Spray
Instead of using butter to grease the baking dish, we opt for non-stick cooking spray. This allows us to reduce the fat content and keep the points low, making it easier to remove the bake from the dish without added fat.
10. Sugar-Free Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons)
To make the glaze for the cinnamon roll bake, we use sugar-free maple syrup. This glaze adds sweetness and moisture to the top of the bake without adding sugar or unnecessary points. Many brands offer sugar-free syrups that are low in calories, making them a great WW-friendly option.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a list of essential tools and equipment to prepare the Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake:
- Mixing bowls: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk or hand mixer: To combine the ingredients thoroughly.
- 9×9 inch baking dish: A square baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
- Spatula: For spreading the dough and filling evenly.
- Grater (optional): To grate apples if you prefer a finer texture in the filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Whisk together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. The cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness, making it a perfect complement to the apples and dough.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, egg whites, and skim milk. Add the Stevia or Erythritol and stir to combine. The sweetener will provide a mild sweetness to the dough without adding calories or sugar.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together. You should have a slightly sticky dough, which is ideal for creating the soft, fluffy texture that makes this apple cinnamon roll bake so irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped apples with cinnamon. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated. This simple yet flavorful filling adds the quintessential apple-cinnamon flavor to the bake.
Step 6: Assemble the Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake
Spread half of the dough mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon apple mixture over the dough. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the apples, spreading it out as evenly as possible. The dough will spread and rise as it bakes, so don’t worry if it looks a little uneven.
Step 7: Bake the Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The apples should be tender, and the dough should be fully cooked through.
Step 8: Add the Glaze
While the bake is cooling slightly, prepare the glaze by warming the sugar-free maple syrup in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Drizzle it evenly over the warm apple cinnamon roll bake for added sweetness and moisture.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm and enjoy this WW-friendly treat as a breakfast, dessert, or snack!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Slice)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Net Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
WW SmartPoints (Per Serving)
- Green: 4 points
- Blue: 3 points
- Purple: 3 points
Tips for the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples give the best flavor and texture. If you’re using apples that are a bit too soft, consider cooking them with a little cinnamon and a splash of water to make them softer before adding them to the filling.
- Be Mindful of Portion Size: The recipe makes approximately 8 servings, and it’s important to stick to one serving for accurate points tracking. You can use a sharp knife to cut even squares to help keep your portions consistent.
- Make Ahead: This Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Add Nuts: If you like a little crunch, consider adding some chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling. Just be mindful of the additional points, as nuts can add some extra calories.
Storage and Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, store the Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds, or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
For meal prepping, this bake works wonderfully as a breakfast or snack that you can portion out throughout the week. Just be sure to count the WW points for each serving and store it in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Weight Watchers-friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake offers the perfect balance of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and soft dough, all while keeping the WW points low. By using whole wheat flour, applesauce, and sugar-free sweeteners, this recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls while still delivering the same comforting flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a healthier breakfast or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe will become a favorite in your meal rotation. With minimal points, it’s a delicious way to satisfy your cravings while staying on track with your WW goals. Enjoy!